Press Release
U.S. EDA Partners with Purdue University to Create Jobs, Strengthen Regional Economy
September 3, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $169,763 grant to Purdue University of West Lafayette, Ind., to support the operation of the University Center economic development technical assistance program.
The University Center program provides local government and nonprofit organizations with resources to better analyze the economic needs of local communities.
"Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship at our nation's colleges and universities is a priority of the Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "This EDA grant will create higher-skill, living-wage jobs by giving Purdue University and the surrounding community the resources necessary to remain competitive."
"The University Center will focus primarily on the provision of technical assistance and applied research within Indiana to stimulate awareness and action in support of regional planning, development, and collaboration, enhance entrepreneurship, innovation and an entrepreneurial culture, enhance the efficiency, profitability, and growth potential of existing firms, and assist communities experiencing plant closures," said Sam Cordes, Co-Director, Center for Regional Development, Purdue University.
This investment funds the third year of a three-year University Center program at Purdue University. The scope of work focuses on technical assistance and applied research to help increase productivity, spur innovation and entrepreneurship, and increase long-term regional competitiveness and economic diversification.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov): This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.